This research seeks to examine the integration and relative significance of the hard skills necessary for Metaverse development, with a particular focus on their impact on project outcomes. Adopting a qualitative methodology grounded in grounded theory, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 Metaverse managers, 10 animation educators, and 10 animation students. The findings indicate that 3D modelling, animation character and scene design, and virtual reality software are regarded as the most essential skills for the success of Metaverse projects, as they significantly enhance user immersion and engagement. Model mapping, animation special effects, and scriptwriting were considered of moderate importance, while video editing was viewed as less critical. These results address a gap in the existing literature by providing a comprehensive understanding of how various skills are prioritised and integrated into practice. The originality of this study lies in its holistic approach to analysing skill requirements from multiple stakeholder perspectives, offering actionable insights for educational programmes and industry practices. By addressing these gaps, the research contributes valuable knowledge to both the academic field and the Metaverse development industry, informing curriculum design and project management strategies.